How Arsenal handled Thomas Partey allegations amid legal risks and public scrutiny
Arsenal knew of allegations but let Partey playMidfielder Thomas Partey played more than three seasons for Arsenal while under police investigation for serious sexual offences. Partey, 32, was charged on July 4, 2025, with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault related to alleged incidents involving three women between 2021 and 2022. He denies all charges.
Arsenal received its first contact from one complainant in September 2021, shortly after police opened their investigation. The club was also contacted by the Metropolitan Police to confirm the allegations and later became aware that the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) was considering whether to charge the player.
Also read: Thomas Partey, former Arsenal footballer, charged with five counts of rape Partey continued to feature prominently in Arsenal's starting lineup, including during the 2022 World Cup and throughout the 2024–25 season. His contract expired on June 30, 2025. Four days later, he was officially charged.
Legal constraints shaped Arsenal's responseUnder UK employment law and the terms of the standard Premier League contract, suspending Partey without pay would have been legally complex. According to Onside Law's Alex Clarke, clubs can suspend players for up to two weeks on full pay, but extending that period would require mutual agreement.Clubs do not have the legal authority to withhold pay or unilaterally suspend players without risk of breach. FIFA regulations could allow a player to terminate a contract for 'sporting just cause' if not selected for an entire season, a factor Arsenal may have considered in continuing to field Partey.The club also owed a duty of care to Partey as his employer, with premature disciplinary action potentially implying guilt before legal resolution.
Backlash from fans and staff raises ethical questions While Partey remained on the pitch, Arsenal faced increasing scrutiny from supporters, internal staff, and advocacy groups. The fan group Arsenal Supporters Against Sexual Violence submitted a letter with over 9,000 signatures urging the club to act more transparently regarding players facing serious allegations.
Also read: Who is John Textor? Controversial American businessman whose ties with French soccer club Lyon leads to Pr Despite reduced media promotion of Partey in later seasons, his presence in matchday squads drew criticism. Some staff members reportedly expressed disappointment over the club's decision to initiate contract extension talks with Partey in early 2025, despite knowledge of the CPS's pending decision.At the time of the charges, Partey was still listed as an Arsenal player on the club's official website.
Club culture and legal duty in tension Arsenal has cultivated a brand built on diversity, inclusion, and social responsibility. The club is home to one of Europe's top women's teams and promotes values aligned with progressive causes. However, critics argue the club's handling of the Partey case reveals inconsistencies between its messaging and actions.
The club declined to answer detailed questions from The Athletic, citing ongoing legal proceedings. It stated: 'The player's contract ended on June 30. Due to ongoing legal proceedings, the club is unable to comment on the case.' Legal experts emphasize that without systemic changes to the Premier League's contract framework, clubs have limited ability to suspend players accused of serious crimes. Still, some question whether Arsenal could have avoided selecting Partey while fulfilling legal obligations.
Also read: Brazil football coach, ex-Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti sentenced to one-year jail term. Here's why
As Lisa Nandy, the UK's Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, noted, the lack of standardized responses across football to such allegations continues to be a gap in governance.
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